Detectives are investigating after shots were fired in Anfield at around 11pm on Thursday, near to the junction of Clifton Road with Gloucester Road.

In a separate incident earlier that night, a man was shot and his car stolen in Walton.

Officers searched the area in Anfield and evidence of a firearms discharge was found.

Crime scene investigators examined the scene, house-to-house enquiries were carried out and CCTV was being looked at. High visibility patrols were also increased.

Detective Chief Superintendent Paul Richardson said: “We believe there were some people, possibly on bikes, in the street at the time of the incident and we are keen to trace them.”

At around 8pm a man was shot in the back on Whitfield Road off Rice Lane in Walton, but detectives now believe the man may have known his attackers.

A Merseyside Police spokesman said: “It is believed that the victim had initially allowed the offenders into his car however an altercation has then occurred inside the vehicle and the victim has been assaulted before having his car stolen.

“At this stage the victim had declined opportunities to make a formal statement to police.”

The victim received slight wounds to his lower back and a flesh wound to his arm. He was taken to hospital for treatment for his injuries.

The stolen car has an 02 number plate and officers are appealing for information about the car’s whereabouts.

Anyone with information about either incident should call Matrix team on 0151 777 5699 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.